This National Women’s Small Business Month, Phyllis Livingood, owner of Livingood’s Appliances & Bedding, is celebrating nearly five decades of legacy, perseverance, and small business success with an exciting new chapter of growth.

On Tuesday, October 21, Livingood’s hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for its new 138,000-square-foot facility at 1326 U.S. Highway 80 East in Pooler.

For Phyllis, the new facility is a testament to hard work, family values, and a vision that began nearly 50 years ago in a modest 1,000-square-foot building.

“When we opened our doors in 1976, we had just three employees—my husband, myself, and one of our sons,” Phyllis said. “Today, we have 100 employees, and we’ll be hiring even more with the new facility. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m proud of what we’ve built together as a family.”

Phyllis and her late husband moved from Atlanta to Savannah in 1974, when he was transferred by his job. Two years later, they took a leap of faith and launched Livingood’s Appliances, adding the bedding component after.

After her husband’s passing seven years ago, Phyllis continued to lead the business with determination and heart, working alongside her sons, who now manage the company’s day-to-day operations.

“My boys are the heart of the business,” Livingood said. “I keep doing this for them and for our family’s future because we all love helping people. We have served generations of families in the Savannah area, and it means the world to see that trust continue.”

Livingood’s has become a high volume appliance dealer in Georgia, with locations in Savannah, Okatie, and Pooler. The company’s success is grounded in service by selling, installing, and servicing every product they offer.

“There may be times when we find ourselves competing with the big box stores, but we focus on what makes us different: service, expertise, and relationships,” Livingood said. “We take the time to learn what our customers need and help them find the right fit.”

The new Pooler facility will bring the showroom, corporate offices, and warehouse under one roof, increasing efficiency and improving customer experience. It will also allow for expanded inventory and new product lines, including a plumbing department with tubs, sinks, and faucets.

In celebration of National Women’s Small Business Month, Livingood reflects on the lessons she’s learned over nearly half a century of entrepreneurship:

“I’ve learned that you can’t run a business in isolation,” she said. “I look to my local Bank of America business banker for guidance and advice. They help me understand my financial options, educate me on opportunities, and support me with the tools I need to grow. Having that trusted relationship makes all the difference when you’re making big decisions, like expanding or investing.”

As Livingood’s prepares to break ground on its next chapter, Phyllis remains focused on what has guided her family and community. Nearly 50 years after opening her first small store, she continues to inspire through her dedication to service and perseverance. Her story embodies the spirit of National Women’s Small Business Month. She is a reminder that with hard work and the right support, small businesses can build legacies that last for generations.